Peking University, one of the leading educational institutions in China, has invited 10 leading artists and art experts as part-time professors.

The group is: Yu Runyang, a music theorist; pianist Zhou Guangren, oil painter Jin Shangyi; art historian Shao Dazhen; art critic Shen Peng; calligrapher Ouyang Zhongshi; theatrical theorist Tan Peisheng; dramatist Huang Huilin; film and video expert Zhong Chengxiang; and Yu Ping, a dance critic.

Many of them are educators and have made outstanding achievements in art circles, according to university sources.

It is the first time that Peking University has employed artists and art experts as part-time professors, said Peng Jixiang, deputy director of the Art Studies Department.

According to Peng, the university plans to set up an arts institute to include departments specializing in music, painting, film and video, and management of the cultural economy.

(Xinhua News Agency May 17, 2002)